HIKKADUWA
Area: Sri Lanka
Country: Sri Lanka


Location:
On SW coast, 62 miles S of Colombo, 86 miles S of Bandaranaike international airport. 13 miles NW of Galle.

Telephone code from UK:
94 9

Position:
On flat strip, strung out along main coast road on SW corner of island.

Description:
Originally a remote fishing village, Hikkaduwa's coastal strip was at one time colonised by shabby tourist-related industries drawn by the resort's popularity with hippies and backpackers. Although the area has improved, it still suffers from the presence of touts offering illicit goods and services. This has resulted in some activity beyond that provided by the major hotels, but it may not be to everyoneÆs taste.

Suitability:
Sun worshippers and those seeking a more bohemian atmosphere.

Accommodation:
Wide range of properties with emphasis on small budget establishments with limited facilities; generally less sophisticated than in more northerly resorts. A couple of self-contained beachfront hotels exist, one with its own water-sports facilities and PADI diving.

Shopping:
Limited. Best buys are handicrafts and hippie-style jewellery and accessories.

Beach:
Broad crescent of golden sand protected by offshore reef, creating a "coral sanctuary"; access to ocean can be stony. Water sports, snorkelling and PADI diving organised by main hotel and a handful of local businesses.

Entertainments:
Occasional karaoke in bars.

Eating:
Beachside fish restaurants.

Public-transport:
Buses and trains to Galle and along coast to Colombo. Motorised rickshaws may be hailed on main road.

Local-excursions:
Half day: glass-bottomed boat trips; Galle; turtle hatcheries at Bentota and Kosgoda. Full day: Kalutara temples; Yala National Park safari.